Rachael Craw, Stray (Spark #2), Walker Books, 1 Sept 2015, 425pp., $19.95 (pbk), ISBN:9781922179630
Stray is the 2nd in series about Evie and the terrifying Affinity Project. The Affinity Project created a synthetic gene which is used to manipulate and modify human DNA in the development of lethal combatants.
Spark, the first book, introduces Evie, a teenage girl, who finds out that members of her family and friends are victims of a DNA project. Evie is a ‘shield’ which means she is genetically programmed to act as a defender / protector. Her twin brother, Aiden, is a ‘stray’ which means he is genetically programmed to act as an attacker / pursuer. Evie’s best friend Kitty is a ‘spark’ which is the worst trait to have as it means a ‘stray’ is programmed to kill her and a spark is programmed to defend her and sparks take a while to build up their skills. However, it is not Aiden who is Evie’s main enemy; it is the Affinity Project who control, train and discipline their combatants.
Stray can be a little difficult to understand, especially you are new to the series. Words are given alternate meanings to the ones they have in everyday speech, making it a bit tricky, but ultimately, one does become engaged with the book because the plot is so exciting with lots of twists and turns, narrow escapes, frustrated passion, swooning, true love and fighting.
A glossary of the terms Craw uses would be helpful at the front of the book, but since there isn’t one there, readers will have to visit the glossary on her website.
If Stray was a movie I would have to give it an MA 15 + rating. It is not really suitable for young, sensitive teens. There are descriptions of torture and medical ‘examinations’ that Evie is forced to undergo which are verging on the gynaecological. That said, there is also a sweet underlying message that parents do have their children’s best interests at heart.
Stray is suitable for older teenagers who love lots of horror, intrigue and suspense.
Reviewed by Katy Gerner